Seven recipes from around the world to try in lockdown

Nothing says satisfying like a hearty bowl of meatballs and rice. Making use of fridge staples like ground beef and crushed tomatoes, this dish from the Central African Republic may seem familiar, but an unusual ingredient turns it from average to awesome – pumpkin seeds.  

Lentils are cheap, nutritious and full of protein – making them a delectable substitute if you’re attempting Meatless May this year. These little legumes only require a few ingredients to truly shine and are a staple in Bangladeshi cuisine, eaten as a side dish with rice and vegetable curries.

Lamenting the days where you grazed on salt-sprinkled bowls of peanuts at the pub quiz? Fill the void with this rich, filling stew; it’s simple to make and packs a punch with bold flavours that may tempt you to step out of your comfort zone.

Searching for new breakfast inspiration? Please give a warm welcome to this comforting Iraqi dish, a distant cousin of shakshuka. Coming at you with spice and a simmer, this one-pan wonder simply means ‘eggs in tomato sauce’ – although ground beef is a popular addition to the mix.

Behold the national dish of Ethiopia! A sweet and spicy chicken stew, this will get your taste buds tingling and uses ingredients you should be able to find in most shops. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try scooping it up with some injera, a spongy sourdough flatbread.

This Lebanese biscuit may look unassuming, but one bite will show you otherwise. Filled with a smooth date mixture, these shortbread sweets dusted with icing sugar melt in the mouth. This dessert is traditionally made to celebrate Eid and uses special carved wooden moulds to make sure every biscuit come out looking perfectly tempting.

Otherwise known as Turkish Delight, this decadent dessert can be made in a range of flavours, from rosewater to mint to pomegranate. Although it’s known for its delicately chewy texture, Lokum is a vegetarian sweet and there are plenty of vegan recipes out there too. Here’s one of them. 

If you do try one of these recipes, why not share your results on social media and tag us: Facebook and Instagram @concernworldwideuk, Twitter @ConcernUK - we’d love to see your creations!